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PMASUP236 - Operate vehicles in the field 

About the unit

This unit delivers the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to prepare and operate vehicles and related equipment to patrol pipelines or otherwise drive across a variety of terrains. This unit of competency applies to operators who are required to check their vehicle daily for damage, ensure fuels and lubricant levels are maintained, effect minor repairs, prepare and maintain field equipment, and communicate with their base station.

The unit includes the following:

  • Prepare vehicle and secure loads, including conducting vehicle familiarisation checks before starting journey.

  • Note and rectify any defects, where possible, or report vehicle for further attention/repair

  • Ascertain that all required fuel, water and other supplies required for the journey are available and in useable order.

  • Inspect all ancillary equipment and operational accessories to ensure they have been attached or secured in a safe and agreed manner.

  • Secure load, including external loads, rear tray, roof racks, and any loads within the vehicle, using appropriate securing equipment.

  • Familiarise oneself with the route to ensure that an appropriate route has been determined, including interpreting access manuals and topographical maps in order to obtain required information for journey.

  • Obtain relevant authorisations/notifications and accesses before starting the journey.

  • Confirm and/or clarify or communicate journey details with relevant company personnel.

  • Monitor driving conditions and requirements constantly, to meet any changes in terrain, weather conditions and road conditions and requirements.

  • Monitor and maintain fluid levels and air pressures to ensure safe and efficient vehicle operations.

  • Monitor vehicle constantly for any malfunctions or factors that may affect vehicle performance.

  • Maintain vehicle speeds within all stated limits and road condition limitations to minimise the risk of personal injury, environmental damage and load damage.

  • Ensure seatbelts are worn by all personnel while the vehicle is in motion, and all safety requirements are adhered to.

  • Apply knowledge of vehicle differences to the driving requirements of 4WD and conventional vehicles.

  • Adhere to general principles of four wheel driving in negotiating a variety of terrains and driving conditions.

  • Use defensive driving techniques, and drive to suit road conditions.

  • Observe additional precautions for night driving.

  • Observe rules prohibiting driving under the influence of alcohol and other performance inhibiting substances.

  • Vehicle recovery - including identifying and assessing options for the recovery of an immobilised vehicle, selecting the right option, operate recovery equipment safely, perform a battery 'jump start' safely, observe safety precautions when rigging cables and chains, and change a wheel on a properly jacked vehicle.

  • Maintain vehicle safety, including observing appropriate speeds for the road conditions, observe site-specific vehicle entry restrictions, follow appropriate search and rescue notification procedures, and follow appropriate procedures for passing large or heavy vehicles.

  • Knowledge around recognising early warning signs of equipment/vehicles needing attention or with potential problems and take appropriate action.

  • Distinguish between causes of vehicle problems/alarms/fault indications, such as instrument failure/malfunction, electrical failure/malfunction, and/or mechanical failure/malfunction.

For any questions regarding this unit, or any other unit or training needs, then please contact us on 0417 761 610 or via email at info@AustralianOffroadAcademy.com.au

Click here to go back to our list of Nationally-Recognised Training units.

Note: All Nationally Recognised Training is delivered in partnership with the RTO Health Security Education RTO #40907

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